May 13

Let's not forget. I have blogged about this earlier here. I just wanted to add a couple of thoughts after listening to distingush speaker at the Forum 512 at the Civic Center last night.  

DSAI Addressing the Audience

Penalists of the Forum

A section of the crowd at the Forum

I feel that we must NEVER forget May 13, 1969. I disagree with YB Lim that the the new 513 is May 7. May 13 cannot be replaced. 513-69 is to be known and remembered. It must be taught in schools and appreciate that we need to move away from race-based politics. 513 must not be swept under the carpet. After all, the The event last night was entitled "From May 13 to 1Malaysia – The Future of Malaysian Nation"

While most speakers (sadly) took the opportunity to some (in some cases) a great deal of BN & Najib bashing, there was little said about the future apart form the often repeated need to reform everything from judicary to transport. Yes, they are important but. I felt there was not ehough discussions about policies, strategies or approaches to learn from 513 and the future. I suppose if we looked at the 3000 people who attended - came from different racial, social and economic background, the future of Malaysia is definately bright.

I personally felt these two things which the speakers said stood out. Firstly, Datuk Seri Nizar when he took over the microphone, he recited a verse about the Quran that talked about unity and appreciation of the different races and traditions.  Taking religion to bring about unity is often said, not usually seen. This is one man who, in my opinion, "walk the talk". 

Secondly, Tricia Yeoh mentioned that the most important policy of all that needed to be changed and transformed is EDUCATION.  Iit is about time someone spoke out about the sorry state of education we are in. Specifically relating to this posting it is the politicising and the lack of innovation in our education that has prevented out younger generation to know and appreciate our own history (no matter how dark it may be).  We owe it to our younger and their future generations to tell them their history.

May all the victims of the May 13, 1969 (and the subsequent days) find peace, where ever they are. 

May we have a better Malaysia for all!